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Women chiefs and rural development in Northern Ghana: exploring pognamine’s role in Dorimon and Wechiau

Author

Listed:
  • Adams Sabogu
  • Frederick Der Bebelleh
  • Francis Nangbeviel Sanyare

Abstract

This study examines the emergence of pognamine within Ghana’s historically patriarchal traditional political system. Employing critical ethnography and decolonial African feminist theoretical frameworks, it examines pognamine’s role in rural development in the Dorimon and Wechiau Traditional Areas. Interviews (16), focus groups (6), and observations with chiefs pognamine, officials of bureaucratic institutions, and community members reveal their pivotal role in mobilising women, resolving conflicts, and providing support services. However, an interplay of colonial legacies and cultural norms bequeath inherent challenges to this novel pognaa institution. Pognamine have limited participation in local decision-making, poor resource control and role ambiguities, hindering their agency. We recommend especially traditional actors to empower pognamine with resources and clear-cut roles to enhance their contribution to local development.

Suggested Citation

  • Adams Sabogu & Frederick Der Bebelleh & Francis Nangbeviel Sanyare, 2026. "Women chiefs and rural development in Northern Ghana: exploring pognamine’s role in Dorimon and Wechiau," Development in Practice, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 36(3), pages 474-484, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:cdipxx:v:36:y:2026:i:3:p:474-484
    DOI: 10.1080/09614524.2025.2551035
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